Governor Ducey’s FY2018 Budget

We recognize the Governor’s proposed budget serves to identify important priorities for K-12 public schools such as teacher salaries, meeting the needs of low income students, early literacy initiatives and investing in building renewal.

The Governor is correct in prioritizing these issues, and we appreciate his acknowledgement in the proposed budget. When fully implemented, these changes could mean an extra $2,000 in base line salaries for classroom teachers teaching in low income schools, and an extra $2,500 per kindergarten student enrolled in low income school districts.

While these are steps in the right direction, ASBA remains concerned about existing revenues needed to support K-12 classrooms long-term. Arizona is slated to lose $97 million in previously enacted tax cuts in FY17 and $182 million in FY18, along with expanding corporate contributions to School Tuitions Organization that equate to $74.3 million in 2017.

We challenge the Governor and the Legislature to think long-term and work with school districts to solve Arizona’s education funding problems identifying sustainable resources to maintain and expand these funding initiatives.

We’re encouraged by the work of the ASBA Governmental Relations Department and its advocacy partners that continue to tell our stories, encourage community involvement and provide timely information and resources. We will continue to advocate for all students in Arizona.